The Chicago Bulls may be struggling for consistency this season, but second-year forward Matas Buzelis is showing signs of growth and development on the court. In his first three games of January, he has been impressive, averaging 21.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.0 block per game. His standout performance included a career-high 26 points against the Boston Celtics, where he shot an efficient 75% from the field, hitting 9 of 12 attempts.
Coach Billy Donovan has expressed his satisfaction with Buzelis’s growth, particularly in his decision-making during games. “He’s not holding the ball and dancing with it,” Donovan noted. “He was decisive when he had it in space. Whether it was shooting the ball or driving the ball, he was decisive, and I feel like that’s how he has to play.”
Buzelis himself acknowledged that he is still on a journey of learning. “I just go out and hoop, try and be the best player I can be,” he stated. “I play hard, and I believe in our team. It was just a matter of time and patience, just keep grinding. Just the comfort level, honestly. It’s only Year 2 for me. That’s not an excuse, but I’m still getting comfortable out there going against grown men. It feels like it’s just a matter of time, learning and learning.”
As the Bulls gear up to face the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday, Buzelis’s availability has come into question due to an illness, which adds a layer of uncertainty to the team’s lineup.
This season has presented challenges for the Bulls, but Buzelis’s performance serves as a beacon of hope, indicating that the team may have a promising talent on their hands. As he continues to enhance his skills and adapt to the pace of the NBA, fans and coaches alike can look forward to his future contributions to the team.